Cookie Jigsaw

Dec 5, 2006

Rita Maas

Associate Food Director Debby Goldsmith has fond memories of making an adorable cookie puzzle with her mother every year during the holidays. The original recipe came from a December 1965 issue of Good Housekeeping. Goldsmith updated the recipe and continued the tradition with her son, Brandon, who as a little boy always got a thrill out of the unique confection. Goldsmith says that if you want to make the puzzle ahead of time, it's best to wrap and freeze undecorated pieces; then unwrap, thaw completely, and follow decorating directions.

On cardboard or paper, draw a Christmas-tree template 10 inches high (from tip of tree to top of trunk) and 10 1/2 inches wide (at base of tree above trunk), with a 1-inch high by 2-inch wide trunk. Cut out template and set aside.

In large bowl, with mixer at medium speed, beat butter and sugar until creamy. Beat in egg, milk, and vanilla until well blended (mixture may look curdled). On waxed paper, combine flour, baking powder, and salt. At low speed, beat in flour mixture just until blended. Pat dough into a small rectangle.

Cut Christmas tree into various geometric-shaped puzzle pieces, being careful not to cut into ornament outlines. Cut remaining cookie around tree into puzzle pieces, being careful not to cut into star outlines.

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